King Ralph: The Political Life and Success of Ralph Klein Ralph Klein is a remarkable figure in Canadian politics. The first Canadian politician to implement the deficit-slashing and tax-cutting agenda and the orchestrator of the most radical changes in the political life of Alberta, he is also a small-l liberal whose popularity remains unharmed by controversies, both political and personal. An elder statesman among Canada's provincial premiers, he remains a singular mix of unpretentious, blue collar sensibilities in the corridors of power, a man so popular that he can campaign on the strength of his first name alone. Ralph Klein's career saw him appoint Stockwell Day to his first cabinet post and answer the call for advice from Mike Harris's 'Common Sense' team. The prime minister's fiercest opponent across the federal-provincial negotiating table, Klein has developed a surprising friendship with golfing partner Jean Chretien. His personal life and long-time marriage, like his political fortunes, have survived a public admission of alcoholism, personal investment scandals, and an outspokenness that, at times, has sent his government colleagues scrambling for cover. Don Martin's investigative biography is an exceptionally candid look at the rough-and-tumble television reporter who became Alberta's biggest political phenomenon. In his research for King Ralph, he was afforded unconditional interviews with Klein, his family and colleagues, and allowed access to previously confidential files kept by Klein's staff during his terms both as Calgary's mayor and Alberta's premier. |
